My Orange Star plant's stems are starting to bend over even though the flowers are blooming beautifully. Also the leaves are turning brown
Answer
Elaine, it does sound like you are over or under watering, probably overwatering. Some pointers: be sure the water thoroughly soaks the soil when you water, does not just run down the inside of the pot which often happens when the soil has pulled away. With a dull knife shove the soil back toward the pot while gently loosening it. Then gently tamp down and rewater. Never let the plant sit in water after watering. However when watering be sure water just starts to come out the bottom of the pot. Be sure the pot has holes so water can come out. Sometimes the holes get clogged with roots, etc. Maybe the soil is so compacted that little water actually is absorbed. if so: Remove the plant carefully from the pot to check for this, gently loosen the soil around the roots, remove any dead roots, repot in 1/2" to 1" larger pot with fresh potting soil (I especially like the Miracle-Gro product). The condition of the roots and soil should tell you a lot of information related to this. Could you have an insect problem? Are the leaves or pot sticky which is one indication of this. Are there little webs in the plant? If it is overwatering the outlook for the plant isn't good as the stem gets a blight which affects nutrient and water absorption. If it is insect infestation remove immediately from anywhere near another plant. Be careful you don't transmit the insect by touching the affected plant then another plant! Feel free to re-contact us if you can give more information. Best of luck. ep